Innovative Features of Improv Pathways

Universal Number Notation

Numbers are used along with standard notation, minimizing transposition difficulties in the classroom and preparing students to use guide tones over chord changes.

Call & Response with Jazz Patterns

Students learn and memorize jazz patterns through Call & Response exercises. The 15 Levels of patterns help students master 3 scales & chords as well as the harmonic and melodic connections between them.

Correlated Jazz Charts

Six correlated jazz charts take students down the Performance Pathway with 1, 2, and 3 chords. Head charts are included, and available Big Band arrangements will show off your students' improvisation skills at concerts and festivals.

At-A-Glance Fingering Charts

Innovative "At-a-Glance" fingering charts help students quickly find each chord tone on their instruments.

Students Improvise with One,
Two, & Three Chords

Starting with only a single chord, students develop advanced improvisation skills, ultimately learning to "play the changes" over a 3-chord blues progression.

Vocabulary

Essential vocabulary is introduced in student friendly language in each lesson.

Group Improv Exercises

Group Improv exercises make improvising easy and low-pressure. Through playing simple variations students develop confidence in their ability to play the "right" notes, and become more motivated to attempt improvised solos.

Whole-Class Comping Exercises

Whole-class comping exercises teach members of the rhythm section how to improvise their comping, while strengthening concepts and skills in the rest of the jazz band.

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Comprehensive Improvisation Curriculum in 18 Lessons

You already have too much to do and teach in your jazz ensemble rehearsals. Improv Pathways takes care of all your curriculum planning, giving you opportunities to work on jazz style along with improvisation. This makes it the perfect supplementary curriculum for the first five months of the year. It is easy to incorporate into regular rehearsals while you spend the majority of your time working on charts for your upcoming concerts.

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